Transplanting stem cell-derived retinal cells to treat dry age-related macular degeneration
Official title: Phase1/2a Clinical Trial of RPESC-derived RPE Transplantation as Therapy for Non-exudative Age-related Macular Degeneration
Funded at Regenerative Research Foundation · NIH-10912462 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by using special cells from adult stem cells to replace damaged cells in the eye, with the goal of safely improving vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Regenerative Research Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 30, 2020 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $634,049 |
| NIH project number | 5UH3EY031810-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912462 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration who are experiencing vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with exudative (wet) age-related macular degeneration or those with other forms of retinal disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells derived from adult stem cells to treat non-exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. The approach involves transplanting these specially differentiated cells into the eye to restore vision by replacing damaged retinal cells. The study aims to determine the safety and effectiveness of these transplants in improving vision for patients suffering from dry AMD. By using less differentiated progenitor cells, the research seeks to minimize the risk of tumor formation while maximizing the potential for vision recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with dry age-related macular degeneration, potentially restoring vision and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous early clinical trials have shown promise for similar approaches using stem cell-derived retinal cells, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Regenerative Research Foundation
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stern, Jeffrey H — Regenerative Research Foundation
- Study coordinator: Stern, Jeffrey H
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Active cycling program to support vision and daily living in Veterans with AMD
A 6-month online group spin cycling program is tested to help Veterans with age-related macular degeneration maintain vision and improve daily functioning.
-
Transplanting stem-cell–derived retinal cells to treat dry AMD
A medical team is testing a stem cell therapy to replace damaged retinal cells in adults with dry age-related macular degeneration.
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RPESC-derived RPE Transplant for Dry AMD in adults
A new cell-based therapy derived from RPESCs is being tested to help adults with dry age-related macular degeneration regain vision.
-
New high-resolution OCT biomarkers to map early AMD changes
A new imaging approach using advanced OCT methods will help doctors see early changes in age-related macular degeneration to guide treatment and improve quality of life for older adults.
-
Targeting inflammation in age-related macular degeneration
Aims to understand how inflammation drives age-related macular degeneration in people and explore new targets to slow or stop vision loss.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.